Job Description Summary Under the supervision of the Costume Studio Manager, Assistant Costume Studio Manager, and the Lead Costume Technician, the Costume Technician will provide technical support for production-related tasks in the College of Performing Arts on an as-needed basis. Skillsets for this role may include stitching, cutting / draping, crafting, wardrobe crew, wardrobe supervision, wig maintenance, theatrical makeup supervision, and / or costume liaison (show-specific costume organization and paperwork). Responsibilities General Responsibilities
- Knowledge and experience in working with domestic sewing machines and hand stitching
- Manage time to ensure that assigned work is completed accurately and on schedule
- Work with students, exhibiting good work habits and professional demeanor
- Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
- Communicate with Costume Studio Manager about problems, and possible solutions, concerning equipment and / or workflow as needed
- Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment and to work independently and follow-through on assignments with minimal direction / instruction
- Ability to follow and apply safety and work-related policies and procedures
If hired, specific responsibilities may include some or all of the below depending on the needs of the production : Stitcher / Crafter
Ability to alter costumes according to fitting notesAbility to repair or refurbish costumes to make stage readyAbility to support costume crafting, including hand painting, distressing, trimming, and millineryAbility to construct costumes from commercial patternsCut fabric based on patterns supplied by Cutter / DraperAssist the Cutter / Draper in the creation of patterns for facings and linings based on patterns supplied by the Cutter / DraperAbility to dye fabric (natural and synthetic) including ability to color matchAbility to airbrush, distress, and work with various foams and plastics to create avant garde garments as neededCutter / Draper
Communicate with designer regarding specific build and alteration needsAbility to create patternsAbility to estimate yardage from created patternsCostume Liaison
Ensure clear communication between the designer, production team, and Costume StudioSupport designer in pulling costumes from costume stockOrganize costumes prior to fittings- track and receive purchases and label any rental itemsWith supervision, support designers during costume fittings by updating dressing lists, labeling costumes and taking complete, concise alteration notesClean out fitting room post-fittings to ensure that supplies are restored and all costumes are appropriately placed under alterations, character names, or extras racksSupport designer with paperwork by completing dressing lists with updated descriptions and laundry codesCommunicate with Costume Studio regarding any missed fittings or necessary secondary fittings- with specifics on items that need to be pulled, purchased, or adjustedWork with Wardrobe Supervisor to prepare costumes and show-related paperwork for load-outAbility to support fitting by pinning, marking hems, advising on alterations– or have the judgment to call in advanced support as neededQuality control of completed alteration notesWardrobe
Create a quick-change plan and appropriate show paperwork for costumes, hair and makeupLoad, unload and move costumes from the Costume Studio to various venues and backAssist actors with costume changes as assignedSupport costume maintenance for the production, including steaming, pressing, checking for and executing repairsCreate a plan for Laundry and Wardrobe maintenance for the specifics of the production, and execute specific laundry needs as assignedAbility to use creative thinking, sound judgment, and remain calm in dealing with a variety of personality types and situationsTrain and supervise wardrobe crew in above dutiesHair / Makeup
Ability to apply theatrical stage makeupAbility to execute hairstyles as designedAbility to apply and maintain wigsAssist actors with hair / makeup changes as assignedSanitize makeup brushes and suppliesTrain and supervise hair / makeup crew in above dutiesRequired Qualifications
Good organization, communication, and time-management skillsWork well with studentsReliable transportation to and from workHand and domestic sewing machine skillsAbility to read a measurement chart and size costumes appropriatelyWear closed–toed shoes in all costume venues at all timesMust wear “stage blacks” during all dress rehearsals and performancesDesired Qualifications
Access to a computerWorking knowledge of Google DriveCostume crafting skillsTheatrical makeup skillsWig styling and applicationAbility to use industrial and leather sewing machines, an overlock machine, hemming machine, dye vatCutting and draping skills